Moving from Memphis to Chattanooga, TN
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Quick answer: Moving from Memphis to Chattanooga costs $402–$7,897, depending on home size and whether you hire a moving company or move yourself. Most moves on this 337-mile route within Tennessee take 1–4 days from packing to delivery, based on moveBuddha's analysis of 71+ Tennessee moving companies.
- Safeway Moving is moveBuddha's top-rated full-service pick at 4.9 out of 5 stars, our best overall value mover for this route.
- Use moveBuddha's cost calculator to compare specific quotes for your move.
What are the best ways to move from Memphis to Chattanooga?
Moving from Memphis to Chattanooga doesn't have to mean hiring a full-service crew and paying top dollar. Whether you want movers to handle the whole job or you're up for tackling parts of it yourself, there's an option that fits.
For full-service moves, we recommend Safeway Moving (4.9/5).
Here's a closer look at each moving option for your 337-mile move:
Moving from Memphis to Chattanooga costs between $402 and $7,897, based on moveBuddha's monthly pricing dataset. The prices below break down your 337-mile move costs by type of moving service and home size.
| Move type | Top pick | Average cost | Best for | Potential downside |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full-service mover | $2,211–$5,738 | Movers handle loading, driving & unloading | Highest price of all options | |
| Moving container | $1,328–$2,685 (around 30% less than full-service) | Pack & load on your own schedule | You handle all loading & unloading | |
| Rental truck | $423–$885 (around 60% less than full-service) | Lowest upfront cost | You drive, load & unload everything yourself | |
| Labor-only | $125/hr | Need a loading crew & already have a truck | You arrange your own transport between cities |
Pricing data reflects moveBuddha's monthly dataset of 1,000+ live price points and 71+ Tennessee movers reviewed.
How much does it cost to move from Memphis to Chattanooga?
A move from Memphis to Chattanooga runs $402 to $7,897, per moveBuddha's monthly pricing dataset. Costs on this 337-mile route shift based on service type and home size, with the breakdown below:
- Full-service movers: $1,305–$7,897
- Moving containers: $1,102–$3,380
- Rental trucks: $402–$977
What drives the cost difference?
- Full-service moves combine packing, loading, transport, and unloading in one quote. Professional packing alone runs $0.15–$0.21 per pound.
- Moving containers lower the cost by putting the loading and unloading on you while the company handles transport.
- Rental trucks land roughly 30% under full-service pricing, but you drive 337 miles and source your own labor.
- Movers using moveBuddha's cost calculator typically save 30% compared to their first quote.
| Home size | Full-service mover | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,305–$4,588 | $1,102–$1,783 | $402–$711 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,211–$5,738 | $1,328–$2,685 | $423–$885 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $3,265–$7,897 | $1,828–$3,380 | $520–$977 |
*Prices are based on moveBuddha pricing data backed by our 12 years of experience reviewing 71+ Tennessee moving companies, and are updated as of May 2026. Actual costs vary based on home size, add-on services, access or parking conditions, and timing. Use a moving cost calculator and compare quotes from at least 3 movers for the most accurate number.
What extra fees should you expect on a Memphis to Chattanooga move?
Common extra fees on a Memphis to Chattanooga move include professional packing, shuttle and access fees, and optional comprehensive contents protection plans. None of these typically appear on initial quotes, but together they can add 10%–25% on top of the base price.
Here's a breakdown of some of the most common added moving costs:
| Extra cost | Typical range | Applies to |
|---|---|---|
| Professional packing | $0.15–$0.21 per pound | Full-service movers |
| Loading labor | $125/hr per mover | Moving containers, rental trucks |
| Fuel surcharge | $100–$400, or 8–15% of transport charges | Full-service movers |
| Shuttle service | $0.08–$0.12 per pound, $200 minimum | Full-service movers |
| Access fees (stairs, elevators, long carry) | $75–$500+ | Full-service movers |
| Storage-in-transit | ~$0.50 per cubic foot ($257/month for a 1-bedroom) | Full-service movers |
| Bulky-item handling | $150–$400 per item | Full-service movers |
| Equipment rental | $50–$200 | Rental trucks |
| Added valuation coverage | 1–2% of declared value | All move types |
Source: moveBuddha pricing analysis. Bulky-item charges apply to safes, sectionals, and large appliances. Storage-in-transit assumes ~514 cubic feet for a 1-bedroom home.
Best movers from Memphis to Chattanooga
Safeway Moving is moveBuddha's top-rated full-service mover from Memphis to Chattanooga, earning 4.9 out of 5 stars as our best overall value pick. At 337 miles, both local and national movers can handle this route well. Your best fit depends on home size, timeline, and budget.
Best movers for larger homes & complex logistics
Safeway Moving is our best overall value pick for full-service moves from Memphis to Chattanooga. With 14 years in the moving industry, statewide service throughout Tennessee, and a 4.9 out of 5 stars moveBuddha rating, Safeway Moving handles intrastate moves of 337 miles with the logistics infrastructure most local operators can't match.
moveBuddha's top 5 full-service movers, ranked:
- Safeway Moving (4.9 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's best overall value pick.
- American Van Lines (4.9 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's most experienced pick.
- North American Van Lines (4.8 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's best customized plans pick.
- Allied Van Lines (4.2 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's best coverage pick.
- Mayzlin Relocation (4.8 out of 5 stars), moveBuddha's best customer service pick.
More Tennessee moving resources
Moving the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Chattanooga to Memphis guide.
How does Chattanooga compare to Memphis?
Cost of living: Memphis vs. Chattanooga
The cost of living in Memphis vs. Chattanooga goes beyond housing prices. This section breaks down the financial factors that shape your day-to-day budget, including rent, home values, income, daily expenses, and employment rates, so you can see how life in Chattanooga stacks up against Memphis.
Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:
| Memphis | Chattanooga | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,299 | $1,475 |
| Average home cost | $154,209 | $259,125 |
| Average income (per capita) | $51,211 | $61,028 |
| Cost of living (single person) | $1,842 | $3,300 |
| Cost of living (family of 4) | $4,402 | $4,350 |
| Unemployment rate | 8.0% | 5.6% |
| Average sales tax | 9.75% | 9.25% |
Cost-of-living data for Memphis and Chattanooga comes from moveBuddha's city dataset, updated May 2026 across 71+ Tennessee cities and metros. Methodology details are available in our moving cost methodology.
- Rent prices in Chattanooga are 14% higher than in Memphis. Negotiate a cost-of-living adjustment or factor the gap into your relocation budget.
- Home prices in Chattanooga are 68% higher than Memphis. Existing homeowners trading up to similar square footage face a meaningful jump in down payment and monthly mortgage.
- Salaries in Chattanooga average 19% higher than Memphis. Match your salary to local rates rather than your current pay band when negotiating.
- Living expenses for one person in Chattanooga run 79% higher than Memphis. The gap typically lands on rent, groceries, and transportation.
- Cost of living for a family of 4 matches across Chattanooga and Memphis. Plan the move on existing household budget assumptions.
- Unemployment in Chattanooga is 30% lower than Memphis. A relocating professional with a current role can expect strong inbound recruiter activity.
- Sales taxes are equal in Chattanooga and Memphis. Retail spending remains level through the move.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $5,370 in Chattanooga to maintain the same standard of life that you could have with $3,000 in Memphis.
How life is different in Memphis vs. Chattanooga
Life in Chattanooga vs. Memphis differs across weather, population, cost of living, politics, and safety. All of these factors shape your day-to-day experience. The side-by-side comparison below helps you decide which city suits your lifestyle and priorities best.
| Memphis | Chattanooga | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 633,104 | 181,099 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 51-46 | Republican 53.8-44.1 |
| Summer high | 91ºF | 89ºF |
| Winter low | 30ºF | 28ºF |
| Annual rain | 54" | 51" |
| Annual snow | 3" | 2" |
| Crime index | 77.49 | 53.89 |
- Chattanooga is 71% smaller in size than Memphis. Plan for lower density and a more concentrated local job market.
- In the last presidential election, Chattanooga leaned Republican, while Memphis went Democratic.
- Summer highs in Chattanooga (89°F) match Memphis (91°F). Plan for the same AC load and seasonal pace.
- Winter lows in Memphis (30°F) and Chattanooga (28°F) are similar. Heating costs and seasonal wardrobe carry over without adjustment.
- Annual rainfall in Memphis (54 inches) and Chattanooga (51 inches) is similar. No adjustment to outdoor or commuting routines.
- Annual snowfall matches across Memphis (3 inches) and Chattanooga (2 inches). Plowing, gear, and winter driving expectations carry over.
- Crime index in Chattanooga (53.89) runs lower than Memphis (77.49). Insurance costs and security investment typically drop accordingly.
Things to do in Chattanooga
Chattanooga balances outdoor access, cultural depth, sports culture, and academic presence. The categories below cover the best of each.
Museums in Chattanooga
- Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum
- Creative Discovery Museum
- Coker Museum - Honest Charley
- Hunter Museum of American Art
- International Towing and Recovery Museum
Parks in Chattanooga
- Coolidge Park Tennessee
- Riverpark Ross's Landing Park
- Enterprise South Nature Park
- Chickamauga Dam
- Tennessee River Park
Sports teams in Chattanooga
- Chattanooga Lookouts (Southern League)
- Chattanooga Red Wolves SC (USL League One)
Universities in Chattanooga
- University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
- Chattanooga State Community College
- Tennessee Temple University
- University of Tennessee -College of Medicine
- Richmont Graduate University
Final verdict: best movers from Memphis to Chattanooga
Safeway Moving is moveBuddha's top recommendation for full-service moves from Memphis to Chattanooga, earning 4.9 out of 5 stars as our best overall value pick. With 14 years in business and statewide Tennessee service, it's the strongest choice for larger homes, complex logistics, or moves that benefit from full packing and loading service.
For shoppers prioritizing cost, a moving container or rental truck cuts the price by roughly 30% versus a full-service move. Total costs on this route range from $402–$7,897 depending on service type and home size. All recommendations reflect moveBuddha's analysis of 71+ Tennessee movers, our monthly pricing dataset of 1,000+ live price points, and 12 years of moving industry research.
FAQs about moving from Memphis to Chattanooga
How much does it cost to hire a professional moving company from Memphis to Chattanooga?
A professional moving company from Memphis to Chattanooga charges $1,224–$3,588 for a few items or a small bedroom. For a 2–3 bedroom home, prices run $2,211–$5,738. For a home with 4 or more bedrooms, expect to pay $3,265–$7,897.
How much are moving container companies from Memphis to Chattanooga?
Moving containers from Memphis to Chattanooga typically cost as follows. For a studio or 1-bedroom, prices start around $778 and go up to $1,842. For a 2–3 bedroom home, costs typically fall between $1,328 and $2,685. For 4–5 bedroom homes, expect to spend $1,828–$3,380.
How much is a moving truck from Memphis to Chattanooga?
A rental moving truck from Memphis to Chattanooga costs $382–$703 for a studio or 1-bedroom move. A 2–3 bedroom move runs $423–$885, and a 4-bedroom or larger move costs $520–$977.
Rental trucks are usually the cheapest option, but require you to handle the driving and labor. The estimates above include estimated fuel cost.
How far in advance should I book Memphis-to-Chattanooga movers?
Book your move from Memphis to Chattanooga at least 2 months before your moving date for the smoothest experience. For a summer move, aim for at least 3 months in advance, since that's the busiest season. Locking in your Memphis-to-Chattanooga movers early helps you snag your preferred date and the best prices. Some moving companies sweeten the deal with early-bird discounts on advance bookings.
What time of year is the cheapest to move to Chattanooga?
The cheapest time to move to Chattanooga is between early October and late April. A move outside the busy May-to-September season means less competition and better rates, helping you avoid peak prices and busy schedules.
